Implant treatment is artificial tooth roots that are permanently placed in place of lost or extracted teeth. Implants are usually made of biocompatible materials such as titanium and are surgically placed in the jawbone. These implants integrate with the jawbone and form a durable foundation.
Implant treatment usually includes the following stages:
Evaluation and planning: In the first step, your dentist will evaluate your mouth and jawbone to determine if implant treatment is appropriate. Imaging techniques such as x-rays, dental impressions and computed tomography may be used. Detailed planning is done to determine the correct position of the implants and the treatment plan.
Implant placement: It is the surgical placement of implants. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. The gingiva is opened and the implants are placed precisely in the jawbone. After the procedure, the implants are waited for a while to combine with the jawbone and heal. This period usually ranges from 3 to 6 months required for the integration of the implant with the jawbone.
Temporary restoration: During the healing process of the implants, a temporary dental prosthesis or bridge may be fitted. This temporary restoration provides an aesthetic and functional temporary solution and allows you to use your teeth during the healing of the implants.
Preparation of implant superstructures: After the implants have healed, the implant superstructures are prepared. At this stage, connection parts called abutments are attached to the implants. Abutments are shaped to hold onto the dental prosthesis or bridge.
Prosthetic application: When the implant superstructures are ready, the dentist places a specially designed dental prosthesis or bridge on the implants. The denture provides appearance, comfort and function similar to natural teeth.
Implant treatment can vary depending on the individual’s condition and treatment plan. Each stage is guided and supervised by the dentist. For a good implant treatment, it is important to clean the implants regularly, pay attention to oral hygiene and make regular dental check-ups.
Implant treatment is usually carried out successfully, but complications may occur in rare cases. Possible complications of implant treatment can include:
Implant failure: One of the most serious complications is implant failure. Implants may fail if they are not firmly integrated with the jawbone or if infection develops. The failure rate is usually low, but sometimes implants do not integrate adequately with the jawbone and may need to be removed.
Infection: Infection may develop after implant surgery. The tissue or bone around the implant may become infected. This condition may present with pain, swelling, redness, and other signs of infection. If the infection is not treated, the risk of implant failure may increase.
Bone loss: In rare cases, loss of the jawbone may occur after implant surgery. This may affect the stability of the implant and increase the risk of failure.
Nerve damage: Damage to nerves during implant surgery is a rare complication, but it can occur. In this case, symptoms of nerve damage such as numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation may occur.
Gum problems: Gum problems may develop around the implant. Problems such as gum infection, recession, bleeding or deformity of the gum tissue around the implant may occur.
Aesthetic problems: Aesthetic problems may occur if the implant is not placed in the correct position or shape. The implant prosthesis may be incompatible with other teeth or aesthetically undesirable results may occur.
These complications are usually rare, but careful evaluation, proper planning and intervention by an experienced dentist are important during implant treatment. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are also important for the prevention or early detection of complications.
Symptoms of a failed implant treatment may include:
Severe pain: A symptom of an unsuccessful implant treatment is severe and persistent pain. You may feel pain, discomfort or tenderness at the implant site.
Inflammation and swelling: In an unsuccessful implant treatment, there may be inflammation and swelling around the implant. Redness, tenderness and swelling may be observed in the tissues around the implant.
Loosening of the implant: In cases where the implant is not properly integrated, displacement or loosening of the implant may occur. This can be felt while chewing or talking, or you may move when you step on the implant.
Visible change of implant: As a result of unsuccessful implant treatment, the shape or color of the implant may change. Symptoms such as recession or discoloration of the gums in the implant area may be observed.
Instability or discomfort: You may experience discomfort on the implant as a result of unsuccessful implant treatment. You may feel as if your denture or implant is not attached to the jawbone, or you may not be able to bite or chew comfortably with the denture.
Gum problems: Problems may occur in the gum tissue around the implant. Symptoms such as gum infection, recession, bleeding or deformity of the gum tissue around the implant may be observed.
These symptoms are possible signs of a failed implant treatment. If you have any problems or concerns with your implant, it is important to consult a dentist immediately. The dentist will assess the situation and help resolve the problem by suggesting appropriate treatment options.
